President's Letter

Association News and Notes

From the Editor President’s Letter Anyone who has used cyanoacrylate It is time again for all members of the AAW to (CA) glue knows how easy fingers exercise their right and privilege to vote in this can get stuck together . . . as well as year’s AAW Board of Directors’ election. to a variety of objects in the shop. Stories abound. In his article on The AAW Board is made up of nine elected CA glue, Bill Blasic provides sound directors. Each director serves a three-year term information about the uses and and may run once for reelection. Terms are precautions for this bonding agent. staggered, so there are three new (or reelected) The project article on making directors each year, three who are serving in a kendama is timely and Arnold the second year of their term, and three who are Ward, who knows and uses this toy, serving in the third year of their term. Directors shares his long-time experience. are volunteers and are not paid for their service Woodturners regularly use on the Board. bandsaws. Mark Duginske’s and Exercising your right to vote is your opportunity to influence the future Keith Tompkins’ articles will help of the AAW. We have six excellent nominees this year, and your votes you understand, adjust, and safely will determine which three become your directors. Candidate statements use a bandsaw. I confess I have avoided using and a paper ballot are part of this issue of AW. If you prefer to vote elec- spalted wood because of a tronically, please visit the AAW website at woodturner.org/BoardVote to perceived notion that the spalting do so. Your vote must be cast electronically or postmarked no later than itself was harmful to lungs. October 21, 2011. Sara Robinson debunks several Now, let’s talk for a moment about safety. Turning wood on a lathe myths about spalted wood and is one of the safest forms of woodworking; however, it is not without provides scientific evidence that hazards. Good safety practices will significantly reduce the dangers. For this natural treasure is no more example, it is not safe to be anywhere near a lathe in operation without dangerous to healthy people wearing eye protection. For many turning activities, full-face protection than wood dust itself. Instead of is advised. the usual photo of myself, I have I never operate my own lathe without a full-face screen and a short- included an image of a turned sleeved turning smock (so there are no sleeves to become entangled). If and carved sculpture I made a few years ago from spalted maple. It’s there is a maintenance problem about 9" (23 cm) in diameter. with my lathe, I fix it before using Remember to Vote! The look of the spalting is the lathe again. I keep my work dramatic, but several punky areas area well lit, and I wear a dust mask AAW Board Election were troublesome. Thanks to a whenever I am sanding or cutting Photos and statements of the six nominees run- generous application of CA glue, dusty timber. Dust in your lungs is ning for election to the AAW Board of Directors the punky spots hardened enough cumulative and some woods can appear on pages 5—7. Please read the state- to accept a finish and blend with be toxic. ments and then vote for up to three candidates. the surrounding wood. These are a few of the safety con- There are two options for voting: (1) by —Betty Scarpino siderations we should all be aware electronic ballot, which is available on the AAW of to protect ourselves against website at woodturner.org/BoardVote or (2) by injury. The AAW website offers paper ballot, which is included in the plastic excellent guidelines and resources bag with this journal. The ballot contains your on lathe safety. Every woodturner name and membership number. Tear off the ballot where instructed, put it in the enclosed should review safety guidelines fre- envelope, affix a stamp, and mail the ballot. quently and practice them always. Your vote must be cast electronically or Your well-being depends on it! postmarked no later than October 21, 2011. We encourage you to participate in the vot- With warm regards, ing process and hope that you take the time Tom to help make this election turnout significant.

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Candidates for the Board The Nominating Committee is pleased to present the follow- We encourage you to participate in the voting process ing six candidates to the AAW membership for their consid- and hope that you take the time to help make this election eration. There are two ways to vote: (1) by electronic ballot, turnout significant. Your vote must be cast electronically or which is available on the AAW website at woodturner.org/ postmarked no later than October 21, 2011. BoardVote or (2) by paper ballot, which is included with this issue of the journal, along with a self-addressed envelope. —Kurt Hertzog, Chair, Nominating Committee

Dale Larson, Oregon

This is my thirty- since it started in 1990. Twice I served the AAW and the education I have third year of as president. Since 1993 I have hosted received along the way from the AAW. woodturning. woodturners from all over the world I am currently serving my first term I joined AAW in my shop for our chapter demon- on the AAW Board. One of my primary in 1989 when I strations. Additionally, I host an open roles for the last two years is coordinat- attended the third shop once a month. New woodturners ing the annual symposium. In this annual AAW sym- are invited to attend, where we teach role, I get the honor of working with posium in Seattle. them how to sharpen tools and assist woodturners from all over the world. I can honestly say that symposium them in a project. Education of wood- Additionally, during this past year, I changed the path of my life. Since then, turning is the core mission of AAW, was the lead Board member on updat- I have attended fifteen symposia. In and I strongly support education pro- ing our Bylaws. 2007 when the symposium was held in grams. We need to continue to draw The past two years have been a period Portland, Oregon, Tom Reiman and I in new and younger members to have of change within the AAW, as we grow were the local liaisons. We coordinated a strong organization. into a truly international organization. the numerous local committees that it Woodturning has taken me all over I am keenly aware of the Association’s takes to make the symposium a success. the United States and internationally. history and its future goals. Please vote I have been a member of the Many of my contacts and invitations for me for another term as a member of Cascade Woodturners Association are due to the friends I have met in the Board of Directors of the AAW.

John Morand, Ontario Fellow wood learning opportunities. My work can member and former chair of the turners, I am be seen at johnmorand.com. I still have International Economic Development running for the much to learn and the AAW plays an Council based in Washington, D.C., Board of the AAW important part in that learning curve. when I make a commitment, I deliver. to give something Our studio is located in Port Hope, I currently serve on the board of an back to the orga- Ontario, where I provide woodturning art gallery and a Lions Club. nization that has instruction to a cross-section of people, I established one of the first Tourism changed my life. including individuals with treatable and the Arts conferences in Canada I am a semi-retired environmental mental diseases such as depression. and have served on a number of public lawyer and strategic planning consul- There is nothing like the smell, texture, boards where I have been active in the tant. I am married to Juliet Fullerton; and feel of a turning to make one feel areas of finance and governance. we share an interest in woodturning. good and the day that much better. As former city manager, corporate I have been turning wood for the past I have been a board member and executive, and management consul- eleven years and am a member of the chair of a number of local, national, tant, I have much to offer as a profes- Kawartha Woodturning Guild where I and international organizations and sional manager in the development of am heavily involved, along with others, would like to bring that experience policy as the AAW moves forward. to build our club to well over 100 to the AAW to assist in its growth and members. I enjoy the camaraderie and new directions. As a ten-year board More candidates on next page

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Paul Omilon, Saskatchewan

I have been a pro- a chapter of the AAW. Changes to our me with a wealth of experience in fessional wood- bylaws and application to the AAW working with large and small organiza- turner for more were completed in May this year. tions. The organizational and opera- than twenty- I have been teaching woodturning tional skills developed during my pro- two years and a at our local arts education facility fessional career would serve the AAW member of the for the past four years. Recently I Board well in managing our continued AAW since 2007. had the privilege of teaching spindle growth in the coming years. In recent years, turning to a grade 12 class as part of The focus of the Association must be there has been tremendous growth in their applied technology program. to serve all levels of membership needs the Association in terms of member- This was an exciting experience for and development and I would work ship, the continued development of me and was in keeping with the goal together with other members of the our educational programs, and the of our guild to expand access of our Board of Directors to that end. Much positive changes to our journal from youth to the woodturning scene. The has been done in the twenty-five years black and white to full color and from future of our organization lies in the of our Association and much more can four to six issues per year. encouragement and development of be accomplished through our contin- As a founding director and Vice our youth programs. ued growth and development. President of the South Saskatchewan My twenty-seven years in law I would consider it an honor to Woodturners Guild, I have been enforcement (CSI-type work), along serve as a member of the Board of working with our membership to with twenty years as a Business Directors and ask for your support promote our organization to become Development Manager and VP provide and vote.

Binh Pho, Illinois Three years ago reaching almost 14,000 members committed to continuing I was elected to last year. We now have more than that benefit. the Board of the 330 local chapters. Our national We are all familiar with the AAW. These past symposium continues to gain rec- term growing pains, and as Board three years were ognition in the craft and art world. members, we have had our share. challenging and The Youth Program is attracting As our organization continues to sometimes rough, many young turners. Professional expand and mature, along with yet many things Outreach Program activities are that growth will come additional were accomplished. well received and address a segment issues to resolve. I would very The eight other Board members of our membership essential to much like to stay for a second term I served with were all involved in a diverse outreach. I serve on to finish the job we have begun. updating AAW’s Bylaws, originally that committee. Our Educational The Board’s next major task is to created in 1986. The revised Bylaws Opportunity Grants (EOG) return ensure that oversight and gover- better fit our current status as we to our membership valuable help nance issues are established and continue to progress and grow. for addressing AAW’s core mission resolved so that the AAW has a American Woodturner, journal of of woodturning education. Liability firm foundation for continued the AAW, increased from four to insurance coverage for AAW-related growth and prosperity. We can six issues annually. Membership woodturning activities is provided build our future together, and I ask in the AAW has steadily increased, to all AAW members. The Board is for your support.

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Greg Smith, Michigan

My father intro- Scouts of America, as a scoutmaster involved with the transition from duced me to and volunteer on the local, district, the volunteer staff to the current woodworking and national levels. paid staff. I also served on the youth at an early age. My thirty-five–year career in the program staff. Woodturning auto industry has taught me how to The opportunity to serve on has been my work with people and use my man- the AAW Board of Directors would passion for agement and organizational skills, so allow me to use my skills to help fifteen years and often needed in volunteer organiza- manage the AAW. Representing the I have participated in the AAW for tions. I have been an active member diversified membership is perhaps most of that time. I am a founding in the clubs and organizations to the biggest challenge and is the member and was president of a which I belong. My work experience place where my skills could best local woodturning chapter for six has included program management be used. years, and currently I serve as a and leadership roles in ventures Day-to-day guidance of the orga- committee member and mentor for within the United States and abroad. nization, so that it continues to new turners. I participated in the organizational meet the needs and expectations I am the current president of a local planning and development of busi- of individual members and follows cooperative art gallery where my ness plans for GM’s new Saturn divi- its mission statement and other planning and organizational skills sion in the 1980s. guiding principles, is why I am continue to be put to good use. I have I have been on the symposium interested in serving on the Board been active as an adult in the Boy video staff for six years and been of Directors.

Cassandra Speier, Tennessee

I am the current two and a half years will affect the orga- a Fortune 500 company, yet retain a Vice President nization in both small and substantial small-company feel by avoiding unnec- of the AAW, ways. It is a very real responsibility. essary bureaucracy, and most impor- a member of I have also discovered how much tant, by staying very close to one’s con- the Executive I love this organization. I love what stituency. The AAW has experienced Committee, and it brings to the novice turner, to a similar growth in the last two and a Chairman of the the hobbyist, to the professional, half years, and I like to believe I have Instant Gallery. and studio artists. I am constantly had some small part in keeping us on I am running for a second term on amazed at the depth of generosity the right track. And there's more to do. the AAW Board of Directors, and am with which these turners share the If elected, I will continue to be asking for your support. wealth of their experience. a stabilizing force on the Board, As I considered the decision to run for It is with this new perspective that and will work diligently to help the a second term, I realized how naïve I was I ask for your support in running for a AAW achieve its goals. My business when I ran for the Board the first time. I second term. I have spent my profes- background, leadership talents, and have learned this is hard work and con- sional career working in healthcare passion for woodturning will be an sumes a great deal of personal time. As a companies evolving from small pri- asset in the ongoing mission of the member of the Board, I became steward vately held start-ups into large, publicly AAW to make the art of woodturn- of the organization and its members. held organizations. An important coming accessible to everyone who finds The decisions I made during the past ponent of this evolution is to think like wood irresistible.

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Demo Day for a New Lathe

The Massachusetts South Shore a better course of action. The first Woodturners (local chapter of rule of fundraising is to set a goal the AAW) formed in 1996 at Hank that is difficult, yet achievable. We Cahill’s shop in Abington, MA. The had determined our goal: a new lathe group currently consists of almost and keep the cost at about four thou- sixty active members who attend sand dollars. the monthly meeting, as well as the How would we come up with that monthly hands-on session. Once or amount? Sometimes it felt like we were twice a year the club hosts a special pulling teeth just to collect the $20 event and invites a high-profile pro- annual dues. We could impose a one- fessional woodturner to attend and time fee to each member, but we did opens it to club members and non- not think club members would look members. We keep the cost low for favorably on this approach. these events and hope to break even. First, we simply asked for dona- Our primary focus is learning about tions and received about a thousand woodturning and having an enjoy- dollars, a great start. After going able event. through the typical list of fund- The club had a problem, however, raisers—bake sale, car wash, and that needed to be solved: We didn’t fundraising dinner—we came up have a large lathe. We own several with the idea of Demo Day. The com- mini lathes we use for hands-on ses- mittee arranged to have six of our sions and for various demonstrations, club members each do a one-hour but we needed a larger lathe. We have demonstration of their specialty on Interest was high during our demonstration days. use of Hank’s old General, and while Saturday, and on Sunday they would it is a solid lathe, it has its share of give hands-on workshops on the pre- problems. We tune it up regularly, but vious day’s demonstration, sort of a invariably something breaks during a micro symposium. We set the price at interest, and generated lots of discus- demonstration. The time had come for $25 per person, per day, $35 for lunch sions during the breaks. a solution. included. We arranged for a large The group was split about fifty-fifty No one was going to give us a lathe, number of raffle prizes as well. with members and nonmembers. and we did not have enough surpluses We stressed from the start that the Prizes were given to the first person to in our treasury for buying the sort of membership was going to be purchas- sign up, as well as to the person who lathe we wanted. A committee was ing the lathe and by having group traveled the farthest. formed to investigate the best course activities, everyone gets something One member solicited raffle prizes, of action: fix the General or purchase a out of it. which raised more than $400. new lathe. The committee was charged Everyone had an enjoyable with recommending a solution, as The lineup of demonstrators: weekend, proving that with imagina- well as deciding how much money we Nigel Howe, A Basic Bowl tion and effort, we can accomplish needed to raise and creative ways to Ian Manley, Segmenting our goal. The total attendees on raise it. Nigel Howe (filling in for Angelo Saturday, forty-five, and the amount What did the club want in a lathe? Iafrate), Using a Boring Jig raised, $2,500, meant one thing: It Reliability, inboard capacity, and Bob Trucchi, A Threaded Box was time to start doing some serious price were primary considerations. Rich Friberg, Architectural Turning lathe shopping. Since we had tried several times to fix Ken Lindgren, Surface Embellishment the General, with limited success, the committee decided that if we could Each session started and ended raise enough money, a new lathe was on time, held the audience in rapt Bob Trucchi

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Forum Contest Prize Drawing for AAW Members One of the many benefits of membership in the AAW is our monthly prize and year-end grand prize drawings. Thank you to the vendors that donated this year’s prizes, which Winners include tuition scholarships, $100 certificates, sanding supplies,D VDs, chucks, grinding jigs, and lathes! When you patronize our vendors, please thank them for their support of the AAW. Visit our website at woodturner.org/org/mbrship/drawings_winners.htm to see each month’s prizes and winners. At the end of 2011, we will draw another name from our membership roster to give away a Powermatic 3520B lathe. That winner will name a local chapter to win either a JET 1642 or five JET mini-lathes. The Power- Michael Gibson, Cynthia Gibson, matic and JET lathes are donated by Masala Chai, 2011, Pear, 6½" × 6" (17 cm × 15 cm) Walter Meier Powermatic/JET. Includ- ed is free shipping in the continental USA, or up to a $500 allowance for The challenge for the latest AAW international winners. Forum contest was for two or more individuals to create a collabora- 2011 Donors tive piece. Emphasis was to be on (Others may be added during the year.) the overall form, and the interaction between the two or more disciplines Anderson Ranch Arts Center Hunter Tool Systems should complement the entire piece. andersonranch.org hunterwoodturningtool.com Kurt Bird, Forum moderator, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts Mike Mahoney designs and coordinates the con- arrowmont.org bowlmakerinc.com tests. Molly Winton judged the May contest. To enter the next contest Trent Bosch Oneway Manufacturing and view all the entries, visit the trentbosch.com oneway.ca Forum section of the AAW website at John C. Campbell Folk School The Sanding Glove woodturner.org. folkschool.org thesandingglove.com

Congratulations to the winners! Craft Supplies Thompson Lathe Tools woodturnerscatalog.com thompsonlathetools.com First place, Michael Gibson and Cynthia Gibson David Ellsworth Walter Meier Inc. Powermatic/JET ellsworthstudios.com powermatic.com and jettools.com Second place, Robert Davis and Mary Davis Call for Demonstrators AAW Symposium 2012 Deadline: October 15, 2011

The AAW’s 26th annual international symposium will instructions on how to submit your application. For be held at the San José Convention Center in downtown more information or assistance, contact the AAW office San José, California, June 8–10, 2012. Visit the AAW at [email protected] or call website (woodturner.org/sym/sym2012) for complete 651-484-9094 or 877-595-9094 (toll free).

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Call for Entries 2012 Annual Juried Member Exhibit “A Walk in the Woods”

In honor of California’s many majes- Guidelines tic forests, the theme for the 2012 1. The exhibit is open to any member exhibit is “A Walk in the AAW member. Woods.” Do you see the forest or the 2. Entry fee is $30. trees? Explore this theme with creativ- 3. You may submit up to three ity! All AAW members are eligible to pieces for consideration enter this juried exhibit, which will ($30 total entry fee). premiere at the 2012 AAW Symposium 4. Work must be created at least in 9. When packed for shipment, the in San José, California, before travel- part on the lathe. maximum box size (two × width, ing to other venues. 5. Work must have been created in plus two × depth, plus the length) Entries will be accepted online the past 24 months. may not exceed 108" (270 cm). November 1, 2011, through February 6. An artist statement describing 10. No more than three digital images 3, 2012. The link for submissions will how the piece fits the theme is per submission are allowed: one be provided in the October journal required. Statements may be or two images of an overall view, and will be announced on the AAW edited for length and clarity. and one image showing significant website in October. 7. A 45% commission will be charged detail of the piece. Uploaded images Questions? Contact Tib Shaw on sales made during any of the should be in jpg or tif format, high at the AAW Gallery of Wood Art, exhibition venues. resolution (300dpi), no larger than [email protected] or call her at 8. Work will stay with the exhibit 1,000KB in file size, and 7" (18 cm) 651-484-9094. through multiple venues. on the largest dimension. Winners of the 2011 Best Chapter Newsletter/ Best Chapter Website Contest

Congratulations to the following Congratulations to the following AAW local chapters for winning the AAW local chapters for winning the newsletter contest. website contest. • First Place: Mid-South • First Place: Central Indiana Woodturners Guild, Memphis, Chapter, Zionsville, Indianapolis, midsouthwoodturners.com, cicaaw.org, James Purciful, webmaster Mike Maffitt, editor • Second Place: Mid-South • Second Place: Woodturners Woodturners Guild, Memphis, Guild of Ontario, Ontario, wgo.ca, midsouthwoodturners.com, Peter K. Kaiser, editor Mike Maffitt, webmaster • Third Place: Tennessee • Third Place: New Mexico More information about these con- Association of Woodturners, middle Woodturners, Albuquerque, tests can be found on AAW’s website at Tennessee, tnwoodturners.org, nmwoodturners.org, woodturner.org/community/chapters/ Randy Thompson, editor Dave Stein, webmaster chapter_contests_2011.htm.

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Chapter Collaborative Challenge 2012

For the 2012 American Association reduction. However, of Woodturners 26th annual inter- the AAW cannot national symposium in San José, CA, guarantee that elec- the chapters and membership com- tricity will be avail- mittee will again sponsor a Chapter able where the col- Collaborative Challenge (C3). laborative challenge Each AAW chapter is invited is set up. to submit one collaborative Each chapter must work created by as many chapter specify in which cat- members as possible, with a egory they would minimum of six participants. like their piece to be judged. Choose from Rules one of the following: • The work can be any turned object, • Artistic functional or not. • Mechanical/Technical • The size and weight limits of the • Fantasy collaborative pieces, including the Four prizes packing container and all packing will be awarded materials, will be those set by as follows: UPS for a single standard box (see • Best in Show plaque sidebar). Assembled pieces may be • First Place plaque larger but must fit in the single for each of the standard-size box. Size restrictions three categories apply regardless of commercial or The pieces will be chapter delivery. prominently displayed • The name of each participant must during the symposium be on the work or on an accompa- in an area near the Instant Gallery. nying nameplate. During the symposium, attendees • At least one chapter representa- will be invited to select, by ballot, Remember to Vote! tive must be in attendance at the their choice for Best of Show and AAW Board Election symposium to be responsible for their favorite piece in each of the Photos and statements of the six nominees run- displaying and return shipping of three categories. Votes will be tallied ning for election to the AAW Board of Directors the entry. prior to the banquet, during which appear on pages 5—7. Please read the state- • Any electrical/electronic devices the winners will be recognized. ments and then vote for up to three candidates. in the piece must have an obvious In addition, the chapter’s name There are two options for voting: (1) by power switch for safety and noise will be engraved on the Collaborative electronic ballot, which is available on the AAW Challenge perpetual plaque, which website at woodturner.org/BoardVote or (2) by lists the winners since the 1998 paper ballot, which is included in the plastic • Standard packages can be up to 108" symposium. The plaque resides in bag with this journal. The ballot contains your (270 cm) in length or up to 165" (420 cm) the AAW office in Saint Paul. All name and membership number. Tear off the in length and girth combined. entries will receive a certificate ballot where instructed, put it in the enclosed • The packages can be up to 150 lb (70 kg). envelope, affix a stamp, and mail the ballot. of participation. Your vote must be cast electronically or UPS package size is determined by adding Collaborative Challenge pieces the length (the longest side of the box) and postmarked no later than October 21, 2011. may be offered for sale. Shipping the girth (2× width + 2× height). Details of We encourage you to participate in the vot- the work to the buyer is the joint this measurement can be found at ups.com/ ing process and hope that you take the time responsibility of the chapter and content/us/en/resources/ship/packaging/. to help make this election turnout significant. the buyer.

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In Memoriam: Joan Gilmer Kelly Joan Gilmer Kelly lathe, I do a safety check—my memories The Joan Kelly Memorial Fund, created passed away on of Joan affect my own turning activities.” by Woodturners America in conjunction May 17, the result Cassandra Speier, AAW Board Vice with MSWG, is accepting contributions of an accident that President, speaks fondly of her friend, to honor Joan’s memory (woodturners- occurred while she “Joan was a brilliant artist. She had a america.com). The money will be made was turning wood. BFA from the Memphis College of Art, available as grants for other clubs to Joan was a dedi- and taught art in the public schools. design, engineer, and build shields for cated, talented, and She became involved in woodturning, turning demonstrations. Joan’s memory respected woodturner. Teaching art was joined the Mid-South Woodturners will live on to help ensure the safety of her career; woodturning was her love. Guild (MSWG), and soon became her fellow woodturners. She joined the AAW in 2004 and was a loyal, committed, and well-loved active in woodturning organizations. member. She created works of pure art, Cindy Bowden, AAW Executive Director Board member Warren Carpenter as well as lovely useful objects, which remembers his friend Joan, “Every time were exhibited in numerous local and our paths crossed, Joan’s smile showed regional fairs and galleries.” her love of life and of woodturning. According to woodturner John Hart, She was in a hurry to quit her day job, “Joan was a gifted woodturner and but never in a hurry while turning. She active on the online forum, World of wanted to experience every bit of the joy Woodturning (WoW). She left a legacy

of cutting the wood to create a work of of beautiful and artistic style, as well as Joan Kelly, art! Now, when I get ready to turn on my an imprint of her personality.” turned sculpture

Safety An Ingrained Approach The recent death of Joan Kelly, a long- journal prints a blurb about it in every (3) the article on drive centers in the time AAW member, brought to the issue. Is that enough, though, to truly June journal. forefront the topic of safety. Internet help woodturners be well informed This issue contains an article on forums were buzzing with messages, about safe practices? bandsaw safety. One of the author’s statements, and questions about safety. In much the same way that wood points is to keep the tension on your The AAW Board of Directors discussed grain forms the structure of the mate- bandsaw set properly. But how do safety policies at its last face-to-face rial, safety is an integral component of we know what “proper” means? A meeting. Local chapters are instituting the content of American Woodturner. companion article discusses bandsaw- stricter safety guidelines for demon- For instance, it is not enough to say, blade tension. strations and regional symposiums. “attach the wood to the lathe in a What approach do you have for There are a variety of approaches safe manner.” We need to know how keeping your woodturning practices to incorporate safety into your wood- to determine “safe manner,” as well safe? Is it ingrained or do you simply turning endeavors. They range from as understand the various options give lip service to safety? Over the years, simply giving lip service to safety to for achieving it. Here are just three almost every aspect of safe woodturn- adopting an ingrained approach that examples of instructive content that ing practices has been covered in the touches all aspects of our lives, keeping can help readers develop an informed pages of this journal. All those back us free from harm. approach to attaching wood: (1) issues are available for AAW members, As an organization, the AAW pro- Richard Raffan’s article on chuck jaws online (woodturner.org). Inform your- vides ample safety information to (vol 25, no 6), (2) reminders within self, be safe, and enjoy turning. its members. The website includes articles to use the tailstock for support safety guidelines for woodturners. The when roughing out bowl blanks, and Betty Scarpino, Editor

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Bert Marsh Remembering a Woodturner I became a woodturner in 1992 and me for a week. One day when I was began studying the many forms that away at work, he mowed my lawn on could be created from wood, using a my riding mower. He loved cutting the lathe. At the top of my list of artists grass, explaining that he could cut the whose work I found compelling was grass in his yard in two minutes with Bert Marsh. The title of his book, a weed whacker. When he was not Bert Marsh: Woodturner, reflects his playing in my yard, he turned wood, simple and direct approach to this leaving behind a few pieces that we craft (Guild of Master Craftsman agreed should be collaborations. Publications Ltd., 1995). Bert was a member of The I traveled to England in 2005 on a Worshipful Company of trip organized by Mark Baker (editor Turners in England and won

of Woodturning magazine), who asked many prestigious awards. His Photos courtesy Woodturning magazine what I would like to do on my free time work inspired countless wood- while there. I wanted to visit Bert, who turners, just as he inspired life seemed meaningless. I felt I already knew from having spent me. He was a big supporter of I absolutely knew how a decade looking at his work. Bert the AAW, especially the EOG he felt: When we love seemed surprised with the visit, “Why program to which he always something, how can we is an artsy guy like you wanting to gave a vessel, stipulating a 100 measure that love? Would visit a woodturner like me?” I replied, percent donation. you risk your life for it? I had been faced “The foundation of any great work Last year Bert started having heart with a similar decision in my journey is its form, and I have admired your problems and eventually he was no to find freedom from oppression in work for long time.” And with that longer able to turn. After many trips Vietnam; I understood Bert’s decision. exchange, we became friends. to the hospital and consultations with When you are willing to risk life for In his book, Bert discusses the inspi- a cardiologist, he was told that if he what you love, that is true passion. ration for his forms, which were mostly wanted to turn wood again, he would In Ancient Greece when someone drawn from the domes and shapes of have to have bypass surgery. Bert was died, instead of an obituary, the ques- architectural elements in the Brighton’s 78 years old, and no doctor would tion would be asked, “Did he have Royal Pavilion. During my visit, he agree to surgery when Bert could passion?” In the case of Bert Marsh, took me there. The architecture was simply take it easy and enjoy life. The the answer is a resounding, Yes! Bert absolutely magnificent, and as we problem was, Bert couldn’t enjoy life risked his life for a chance to turn were walking around, discussing how without turning wood. again. His will to live the life of a woodturning inspiration can be taken Bert and I spoke and exchanged woodturner, however, came up against from things that surround us, I came to many emails. He told me that he destiny. Goodbye my friend, you will appreciate his work even more. wanted to take a chance—he really be missed. We will meet again. Years later, Bert visited Chicago for missed turning wood. Woodturning a woodturning event and stayed with was his life and passion and without it, —Binh Pho

Photos courtesy del Mano Gallery (delmano.com)

Untitled, 2010, Burr elm, 3⅝" × 5" Untitled, 2010, Cherry, 4⅝" × 6⅛" × 4⅛" Untitled, 2010, Mulberry, 3½" × 6½" × 5¾" (92 mm × 127 mm) (117 mm × 155 mm × 105 mm) (90 mm × 165 mm × 145 mm)

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Spray Booth Affordable and Compact Gregory S. Whitaker

During the cold winter months I have 32" wide × 65" high [130 cm × cutting a 4¼" (11 cm) hole in the had to limit my application of spray 80 cm × 165 cm]). center (Photo 1). Paint it to match lacquer and varnish because of the • A tube of silicone RTV adhesive the interior of the paint booth unwanted overspray. I had explored • Hot-melt glue and glue gun (Photo 2). the possibility of purchasing a small • A 4" (10 cm) universal dust port 2. Measure the width of the floor commercial spray enclosure, but even • A 9" (23 cm) square piece of ¼" brace to ensure that the mounted the smallest units were too large and (6 mm) plywood faceplate and dust port will be well beyond my budget. • Two shop clamp lamps installed high enough on the Then on a trip to a local sporting • Two folding sawhorses vertical wall so it will clear the goods store, I found exactly what I • A 2' × 2' (60 cm × 60 cm) frame when the booth is col- was looking for: a compact, collaps- plywood board lapsed for storage (Photo 3). ible, inexpensive cubicle that could • A shop vacuum with a 4" (10 cm) 3. On the backside of the faceplate, be modified to become a portable collection hose. (A smaller-size put the silicone RTV adhesive spray booth. A one-person ice-fishing collection hose will not develop in a couple of concentric circles. shanty, with a few simple modifica- adequate airflow.) Then apply hot-melt glue (Photo tions, became an effective • A furnace air filter 4) to each of the four corners of spray booth. • One Lazy Susan (rotating tray) the faceplate before mounting the board on the inside of the hut, at Required materials Tools the height determined in step 2. • A single-person portable ice • Solder gun with a cutting tip The hot-melt glue provides quick shanty. (There are many manu- • Drill and drill bits adhesion so you can move to the facturers of ice shanties. I bought • Screwdriver exterior and mount the dust port a Quik Shak by HT Enterprises, to the faceplate before the silicone which is available on the Internet Assembly steps adhesive has time to cure. for about $130. When assembled, 1. Construct a hose connection face- 4. Within a few minutes of apply- this shanty measures 51" long × plate out of the ¼" plywood by ing the silicone adhesive, mount

1 2 3 4 Hose connection and Paint the faceplate to match the Measure the width of the floor to Apply RTV adhesive, then apply plywood faceplate. interior of the booth. install the faceplate and dust port hot-melt glue to the corners. high enough to clear the frame when the booth is collapsed.

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the dust port onto the outside a great job controlling overspray, using four 3⁄16" (5 mm) wood you will still have to ensure that screws, which pass through the you have adequate ventilation. canvas and into the mounted Wear an appropriate respirator. In faceplate (Photo 5). The pres- my case I have a ceiling exhaust sure applied by the screws will fan in the shop, which is running 5 force the silicone adhesive to whenever I am applying finish. Use wood screws, passed through establish solid contact between the canvas and into the mounted Make sure that your exhaust fan faceplate, to mount the dust port. the canvas and the faceplate and vacuum are approved for use before the RTV has a chance with fumes from spray finishes. (A to skin over. fan or vacuum that has an explo- 5. Use a solder gun fitted with a sion-proof motor will keep sparks cutting tip to open a 4¼" hole from the motor brushes from that aligns with the dust port igniting solvent vapors.) and faceplate (Photo 6). Although this booth configura- 6. On the interior, place a furnace tion would work well for sanding, air filter in front of the dust once sawdust is inside the enclosure port opening, which will trap it becomes difficult to establish a much of the overspray before dust-free environment for the fin- it enters the collection hose ishing process. 6 Use a solder gun fitted with a cutting and vacuum. tip to open a hole that aligns with the dust port and faceplate. 7. To increase the airflow into the Greg Whitaker’s grandfather, a enclosure, use the solder gun’s patternmaker, introduced him to cutting tip to make a Dutch door woodworking at a young age. Greg by slitting the access door and is retired and currently combines his the plastic zipper in half. love of boating with his interest in woodworking. When refurbishing a 8. Mount the clamp lamps on each boat in 2006, he acquired his first side of the interior supports. lathe. Greg’s work can be viewed at 9. Place two folding sawhorses gallery.me.com/gswhitaker/100709. inside, topped with the 2' square piece of plywood, along with a Lazy Susan to facilitate turning 7 your project while applying the With the clamp lamps mounted onto Apple-wood rice bowl spray finish. the interior supports and the vacuum with teak chopsticks, 2010, hose hooked up to the exterior dust 10. At tach a 4" (10 cm) vacuum 4¼" × 4" (11 cm × 10 cm) port, the spray booth is ready to use. hose to the exterior dust port and your spray booth is opera- tional. (Photo 7)

When collapsed, the spray booth measures 51" long × 32" wide × 5" high (130 cm × 80 cm × 13 cm) and weighs about 30 lb (14 kg). In a matter of seconds it can be collapsed and 8 stored on a shelf (Photos 8, 9). Boxed elements and folded shanty are ready for storage. Safety and use Any time you apply a finish, it must be done in a well-ventilated area and although this spray booth does 9 The spray booth is stored on a shelf woodturner.org when not in use. 15

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Preserving unused finish Moveable lamp for Powermatic One of the biggest problems with I finally figured out how to attach my lamp to the headstock so it would move finishing is having expensive finish- with the work. I drilled out the lower hole on the wall bracket that came with ing product go bad sitting in the can. the light and attached it to the comparator arm of my Powermatic by drilling a There is a product to remove the air, ⅜" (10 mm) hole for the comparator cap screw to fit through. Now when I slide but it is costly. the headstock along the bed of the lathe, the lamp follows the work. Simple I purchased a Vacu Vin wine saver solution, and it works! pump and stopper (on the Internet for —Dave Martin, Georgia $11). I drilled a hole into the top of a metal lid (one that fits onto a jar) and put a stopper into the hole. I use the pump to remove most of the air left in the container. Additional stoppers are four for $6. Of course they are also available in most liquor stores. — Robert Jay, New Jersey

Gantry crane I needed to lift log sections that weighed over 200 lb (91 kg) onto a sawbuck so that I was not bent over while ripping them in half. My solution was to build a gantry crane. I scavenged the lumber from dumpsters at construction sites (with permission, of course). The wheels were $14 each and the one-ton chain hoist was $50, both from Harbor Freight. The back two wheels swivel, the front two are fixed, allowing easy maneuverability. I got the sawbuck plans from the Internet; John Lannon, from Ohio, designed them. —Paul M. Kaplowitz, South Carolina

Got a Great Idea? Share your turning ideas! If we publish your tip, we’ll pay you $35. Send your tips along with relevant photos or illustrations and your name and mailing address to: Betty Scarpino American Woodturner 5246 Evanston Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Lightening and finishing silver maple The silver maple I scavenged had gor- I found a natural alternative, an oxy- For a finish, I experimented with geous flame and quilted figure, some genating brightener, OxiWood gran- oil formulation that I often use and artistic ambrosia highlights, but also ules that dissolve in water and can be found that it highlighted not just the some gray stain that detracted from the applied to the wetted wood surface as handsome figure in the wood, but beauty of the wood. I did not want to heavily or as often as is needed. Follow also the residue of gray stain. I sanded alter the natural character and hue of the the instructions for use as a brightener to remove the oil finish and reapplied wood (particularly the ambrosia flares) and then wash thoroughly with a hard the OxiWood. by using aggressive peroxide and chlo- spray of water from a hose and dry in I next tried a finish consisting of rine bleaches. Oxalic acid was ineffective. the open air. Finish by fine sanding. beeswax, some carnauba wax, and mineral oil. I melted and mixed the three ingredients in a pot on the stove Tool rack (take care, wax will ignite!) and allowed I needed a compact way to hold it to harden to a consistency softer than my tools, chucks, faceplates, and the beeswax. I applied this wax finish all the miscellaneous stuff we heavily, and then buffed with a linen turners need to create our works of ball polisher powered by a drill. art. I waited until Sears had a sale The flame and quilt figure didn’t quite on rolling mechanic’s tool chests, “pop” the way I wanted it to, so I applied built an A-frame tool holder for two coats of General Finishes’ light FDA- the top, and applied pegboard approved Salad Bowl Finish with a cloth Burn lines ends. Now everything is in one and rubbed it into the piece. This finish In the April issue (vol 26, no 2), place and I can roll it around. blended well with the wax and produced there was an article about adding —Paul M. Kaplowitz, South Carolina a rich finish with a natural feel and burn lines to a turned object. The appearance—far better than either the article contained an appropriate wax or the liquid finish alone. The hint warning about using a wire around of stain was no longer noticeable and I a fast moving object and the proper ended up with a food-safe finish. handles for that wire. I eliminate the This finish does not dry quickly safety hazard associated with the indoors, but it does dry in a warm wire by using a countertop laminate breeze. I repeated the process on three sample card (such as Formica or more pieces from the same tree with Wilsonart) that you can get free at the same success. most large hardware stores. — Bradford Whitman, Pennsylvania Simply cut a shallow groove in your turned object with a skew chisel, and hold the card against the spinning surface. The friction will soon burn the line you want. You can adjust the width of the burn line by thinning the edge of the sample card on a grinder. — Steve Mellott, Georgia

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Calendar of Events October issue deadline: August 15 Send information to [email protected]

Australia Demonstrators include Kelly Dunn, Sharon information, visit ohiocraft.org or contact William March, 2012 Turnfest! For information, visit Doughtie, and many of Hawaii’s top woodturners. Jewell at [email protected]. turnfest.com.au. For information, visit honoluluwoodturners.org or call Andy Cole at 808-778-7036. September 30–October 2, “Turning 2011,” 7th Ireland biennial symposium, sponsored by Ohio Valley October 14–16, Irish Woodturners’ Guild National Massachusetts Woodturners Guild. The event takes place in sub- Seminar, County Kerry, southwest Ireland, Malton February 5–September 11, “Loom and Lathe: The urban Cincinnati and features Benoît Averly, Jimmy Hotel. Demonstrators include Dick Sing (USA), Bill Art of Kay Sekimachi and Bob Stocksdale,” Fuller Clewes, Keith Holt, Richard Raffan, Avelino Samuel, Robinson and Gary Rance (UK), and Christien Van Craft Museum, Brockton. For more information, Betty Scarpino, Al Stirt, and Kimberly Winkle, plus Bussel, Glenn Lucas, and Tom McCosh (IRE). Easy visit fullercraft.org. local guest demonstrators. There will be a trade show, access to the symposium location from Dublin. Local auction, and lots of good food. Additional details can attractions include Killarney’s 25,000 acre National Michigan be found at ovwg.org or by contacting Bob Cochoy at August 26–27, “Turn for the Troops” event, held at Park, Ireland’s highest mountain (Carrauntoohil), 937-427-2555 or [email protected]. the Woodcraft Store, 4265 28th St., Grand Rapids. and Lakes of Killarney. For more details and updates, Members of the Grand River Woodturners will visit irishwoodturnersguild.com. Tennessee demonstrate turning and hollowing. Finished items January 27–28, 2012, Tennessee Association of United Kingdom will be for sale. Additional information is available Woodturners 24th Annual Woodturning Symposium August 12–14, AWGB Biennial International Seminar at grandriverwoodturners.org. at the Radisson Hotel at Opryland in Nashville. at Loughborough University. Featured demonstra- Featured demonstrators include Al Stirt, Dale Larson, tors include Marilyn Campbell, Michael Mocho, Minnesota Mark Gardner, and Jennifer Shirley. View upcoming June 17–September 4, “Conversations with Hans Weissflog, John Wessels, Yann Marot, Les details on tnwoodturners.org or send an email to sym- Wood: Selections from the Waterbury Collection,” Thorne, Paul Coker, Nick Arnull, Tobias Kaye, and [email protected] or call 615-973-3336. Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minneapolis. This exhibit Tracy Owen. Honored guest is Richard Raffan. Trade features more than 80 spectacular pieces of wood art stands and gallery, all accommodations, restau- Texas collected by David and Ruth Waterbury, residents of August 26–28, Southwest Association of Turners rants, and bars are on the university campus. For Minneapolis. For more information, visit artsmia.org. 20th Annual Symposium, Waco Convention Center. information, contact Reg Hawthorne at reg.haw- Featured demonstrators include Nick Arnull, Kip [email protected] or visit woodturners.co.uk. Montana Christensen, Nick Cook, Douglas Fisher, Dave Hout, Colorado September 24–25, Great Falls Turners Symposium, Alan Lacer, Robert Rosand, and Curt Theobald. For September 10, 11, Rocky Mountain Woodturning Hilton Garden Inn, Great Falls. Jimmy Clewes will more information, visit swaturners.org. Symposium, Loveland. Demonstrators include David demonstrate basic bowl turning, offer a session Washington Ellsworth, Dixie Biggs, and Al Hockenbery. For more on design, shape, form, and aesthetics of turned October 22, A Day with Douglas Fisher at the information, visit rmwoodturningsymposium.com forms, and much more. For information about the Anacortes First Baptist Church, Anacortes. Doug will or contact Allen Jensen at [email protected] or event, visit GFTurners.org or call Sam Sampedro at discuss and demonstrate how he plans and creates 970-663-1868. Following the symposium, Dixie Biggs 406-799-8984. his unique double-sided off-axis pieces. Included will offer a five-day workshop, September 12–16. For October 1–2, Yellowstone Woodturners Symposium, will be details of turning, carving, pyrography, and more information, contact Frank or Elizabeth Amigo Career Center, Billings. Stuart Batty is the guest coloring. An all-day hands-on workshop is available at 970-568-3899 or [email protected]. presenter and will demonstrate bowl-turning basics. October 23. Sponsored by the Northwest Washington Florida For more information, visit yellowstoneturners.org Woodturners. For more information, visit February 3–5, 2012, Florida Woodturning Symposium, or call Stan Lambert at 406-348-3499. nwwwt.org/DouglasFisherDemoPoster-1.pdf or Lake Yale Convention Center. Featured demonstrators email rick Anderson at [email protected]. New York include Tim Yoder, Dick Sing, Mark St. Leger, and Don March 31–April 1, 2012, Totally Turning sympo- Wisconsin Derry. Local demonstrators are Lee Sky, Nick Di Mona, sium, held in conjunction with the 21st Annual November 19–January 22, 2012, “Think Inside the Norm Rose, and Tim Rowe. Workshop leaders are Woodworkers’ Showcase. Featured presenters are Trent Box,” Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau. Don Geiger, Ted Smith, Charlie Schrum, Kurt Hertzog, Bosch, Giles Gilson, Kurt Hertzog, Joe Herrmann, Peter Central Wisconsin woodturners, woodworkers, and and Rudy Lopez. Mark your calendars now and check Lovalo, Glenn Lucas, David Nittmann, Chris Pytlik, and craft artists combine skill and imagination to create out our website for online registration after May 15 at others. More details available at totallyturning.com. containers that hold items of interest or surprise. This floridawoodturningsymposium.com. exhibit is organized with the assistance of Wisconsin North Carolina Georgia Valley Woodturners, a chapter of the AAW, and it November 4–6, North Carolina Woodturning September 16–18, Turning Southern Style XVII, complements “Boxes and Their Makers,” a concurrent Symposium, Greensboro Coliseum Special Events Unicoi State Park Lodge in the mountains of north exhibition featuring the work of thirty-two contempo- Center. Featured demonstrators include Marilyn Georgia near Helen. Featured demonstrators include rary woodworkers from around the world. For more Campbell, Emmet Kane, Mike Mahoney, Pascal Ernie Newman, Andi Wolfe, and Cliff Lounsbury and information, visit lywam.org. Oudet, Richard Raffan, and Les Thorne. They, along several local turners. For information visit gawood- with regional demonstrators, will present 63 ses- turner.org, call Harvey Meyer at 678-261-7722, or Call for Entries sions (7 periods of 9 rotations). Visit northcarolina- August 14 deadline, “Arbor Aid: Vessel,” 4th annual email [email protected]. woodturning.com for developing information. juried art exhibition featuring artwork created from Hawaii reclaimed and urban wood, sponsored by Tree Ohio October 22, 23, 3rd Annual Honolulu Symposium, Pittsburgh. Exhibit date is October 29, 2011. For more July 10–August 21, “National Treasures,” exhibit at sponsored by the Honolulu Woodturners. information, visit treepittsburgh.org/arboraid.org. the Ohio Craft Museum, Columbus. For more

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Demonstration Day Veggies

Each year Boone Elementary School with each group. Previously, we had in Allen, TX, holds Gold Day, which only turned tops but we were able to is a career day for the students. They add bowls and boxes, and the kids offer forty to forty-five presentations loved it! Not all of them appreciated and demonstrations from which the the vegetable smell, though. boys and girls choose. Dallas Area Mark Duval turned a potato, Murray Woodturners has supported this event Stein shaped a sweet potato, and I since 2004. transformed a turnip into a lidded In 2009, Murray Stein suggested that bowl. We also demonstrated turning we incorporate vegetable turning into wooden tops. Not only did we make our show. Doing so enabled us to dem- objects, we promoted healthy eating. The tops are made from wood; the bowls, boxes, onstrate more items (turning veggies is and vases are made from various vegetables. quicker and safer than turning wood) Jon Lindgren, Past President, in the limited amount of time we had Dallas Area Woodturners

Wood Turning Center New Name, New Location

After eleven years at their former loca- archives, and will include an expansive business and cultural communities tion, the Wood Turning Center has exhibition space, museum store, com- of Philadelphia and the organiza- moved to 141 N. 3rd Street, an area of munity room, conference room, and tion’s constituents, the new name Philadelphia that receives considerable staff and executive offices. The Center for Art in Wood, was foot traffic and is near three major gal- The name change is the result of a selected as most representative of the leries: Snyderman/Works Gallery, the three-year strategic business plan to Center’s mission and vision. Wexler Gallery, and the Clay Studio. rebrand the organization. After an The Center’s larger facility will house examination of its mission and vision Albert LeCoff, Co-Founder its museum collection, library, and statements and with input from the and Executive Director

Empty Bowls Project Club Collaboration

In 2010, the Northwestern Michigan purchase a bowl and then enjoy a Woodturners collaborated with local soup and bread meal prepared by potters on a project to raise money for local restaurants. a charity. Each year, the Fresh Food The turners contributed over Partnership, a local nonprofit group, 60 bowls, which were well received. holds a fundraiser, the Empty Bowls The club was especially pleased to Project, to raise money for purchase include bowls made by the Elk Rapids of fresh, locally grown produce from High School woodworking class. the region’s farmers. They distribute This collaborative effort is based on the produce via a group of volunteers the international grassroots movement to the region’s food emergency system to fight hunger, created by The Image including food pantries, community Render Group years ago. For more meal programs, and shelters. On the information about the empty bowls day of the fundraising event, people concept, visit emptybowls.net.

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